The UFC returns to its APEX facility this Saturday with UFC Vegas 105, featuring a compelling featherweight main event between top contenders Josh Emmett and Lerone Murphy. This fight is crucial for both athletes: Murphy aims to solidify his contender status, while Emmett looks to regain his position in the title conversation at 145 pounds. Let`s examine the key matchups and potential outcomes for this weekend`s event.
Pat Sabatini (+190) vs. Joanderson Brito
In the co-main event, Pat Sabatini faces Joanderson Brito in an intriguing matchup. While Brito is on a strong UFC run, Sabatini at +190 odds presents good value. This fight is a classic striker versus grappler scenario, although Brito is also capable in grappling exchanges. Brito`s grappling defense is likely sufficient to avoid submissions, but if the fight goes to the ground, Sabatini`s superior control and grappling skills should lead him to victory. Sabatini`s wrestling ability should enable him to dictate where the fight takes place.
Talita Alencar (-114) vs. Vanessa Demopoulos
Opening the event, Talita Alencar meets Vanessa Demopoulos in a fight that hinges on grappling. Demopoulos is primarily a grappler, but Alencar possesses a higher level of grappling expertise. Alencar`s world championship-level BJJ background surpasses Demopoulos`s grappling skills. Furthermore, Demopoulos`s wrestling isn`t strong, making it unlikely the fight will remain standing for long periods of striking exchanges. Expect this fight to go to the ground, where Alencar holds a significant advantage.
Josh Emmett vs. Lerone Murphy – Decision No Bet (+140)
The main event between Josh Emmett and Lerone Murphy features wide betting odds, which may be overstated. Despite Emmett`s age of 40 and recent inactivity, he remains a dangerous opponent. Murphy, while skilled, is not considered an elite fighter and has shown vulnerability to strikes in the past. Emmett`s renowned punching power makes him a constant knockout threat.
Instead of directly betting on Emmett as an underdog, a safer approach is the “Decision No Bet.” This wager pays out if Emmett wins by knockout, and refunds the bet if the fight goes to a decision (regardless of who wins). Essentially, you are betting on an Emmett KO victory, while mitigating risk if the fight becomes a decision win for Murphy.
Luis Gurule (-265) vs. Ode Osbourne
Luis Gurule will face Ode Osbourne in a flyweight main card bout. Although initially underestimated as a prospect, Gurule`s credentials warrant more respect. A former Furc FC champion and D-II college wrestler, Gurule is well-prepared for professional competition. His strengths lie in grappling and cardio. His main drawback is his age, 31. Osbourne is a known quantity, and Gurule is expected to control the fight through his wrestling.
Daniel Frunza (-158) vs. Rhys McKee
Daniel Frunza is favored to win his preliminary welterweight fight against Rhys McKee. Frunza is a determined striker with a style reminiscent of Bryan Barberena. Rhys McKee, on the other hand, has struggled in the UFC, currently holding an 0-4 record across two stints. McKee is likely to engage Frunza in a striking battle, which favors Frunza due to his greater tenacity and resilience. McKee is likely to extend his UFC losing streak to 0-5.
Parlay these two bets together for +124 odds.
After a challenging start to 2025, recent weeks have shown improvement. Following a successful week at UFC Mexico, the aim is to continue this momentum into UFC 314 fight week.
Enjoy the fights this week, and good luck with your viewing!
Please be aware that this article is for entertainment and informational purposes only. Readers are responsible for understanding and adhering to online gambling regulations in their respective regions before participating in any online sports betting activities.
